Health care in Louisiana will be profoundly affected by the implementation of the health reform law, starting in 2014.

The two biggest changes that will affect HIV patients and HIV care providers in every state are the Medicaid Expansion Option, and the new Insurance Exchange (Marketplace).

Medicaid

As a provider, it will become increasingly important for you to have access to Medicaid patients in the coming years. All states now have the option of expanding the state Medicaid program to cover all low-income individuals without category. Many states have also made the move to managed care systems in recent years, or may do so in the future.

Learn about the decisions the state has made regarding the Medicaid Expansion option, and how to connect your practice to the state Medicaid program system.

Starting in 2014, the state will have a new Insurance Exchange (Marketplace) run by either the state, or the Federal government. Thousands of uninsured patients in the state will be able to purchase new individual and small group insurance plans offered by insurers.

Providers must contract with each insurer separately to be included in the plan’s network.

Learn about the state’s marketplace, what insurers are offering plans in it, and how to contact them about including your practice in their network.

For additional resources and helpful information for providers on integrating your practice with the new systems of care, including contacting insurers, inquiring about contracting, and taking advantage of the health reform provisions designed to help HIV providers, please visit our Provider Resources Section.

For resources on providing direction to your patients in participating in the new systems of care, selecting the plan that is right for them, and retaining access to their HIV provider, please visit our Provider Resources Section.